Electrical Power Engineering MSc

Level: Postgraduate taught

Subject: Engineering

Year of entry: 2026

Study options

Mode of study

On campus

Full-time
  • MSc | 1 year | Start date: September 2026

Key facts

School

School of Engineering

College

College of Science and Engineering

Study location

King's Buildings campus

Accreditation

Available

Apply now

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About the degree programme

Our MSc in Electrical Power Engineering is a dynamic one-year programme designed to provide you with comprehensive training in modern power engineering technologies.

With a strong emphasis on power systems, electrical machines, and power electronics, we prepare you to tackle the challenges of the evolving energy sector. Furthermore our teaching is shaped by the latest demands and innovations in electrical power engineering, ensuring you gain relevant and up-to-date knowldege.

We will equip you with advanced fundamentals, cutting-edge research tools, and techniques in modern power engineering. You will gain in-depth knowledge of emerging technologies and advanced numerical methods, addressing global challenges such as:
•    the integration of wind energy
•    offshore renewables
•    energy storage
•    smart grids

United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

Based on our compulsory course material, this degree aligns with many of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the top three being: 

  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
  • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
  • SDG 13: Climate Action

Programme rankings

  • The School of Engineering is consistently ranked in the UK's top 10 universities for engineering (Times Higher Education rankings by subject 2025 and QS World University rankings by subject 2025)
  • The School of Engineering’s joint submission with Heriot-Watt University in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF) was ranked 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education, based on the quality and breadth of our combined research
  • The University of Edinburgh is ranked 7th in the world and 2nd in the UK for sustainability, recognising our leadership in creating a more sustainable world (2025 QS World University Rankings)

Tuition fees

Tuition fees by award and duration

Tuition fees for full-time and part-time options are listed for one academic year.

Full-time

Graduate discount

If you are a University of Edinburgh graduate, you will be eligible for a 10% discount on your tuition fees for this programme. You may also be eligible if you were a visiting undergraduate student.

Find out how to receive your graduate discount

Deposit

If you receive an offer of admission you will need to pay a deposit to secure your place:

  • £1,500 (this contributes towards your tuition fees)

How and when to pay the deposit

Costs

Additional programme costs

You may wish to consider purchasing your own laptop, however you can also make use of our laptop and internet loan services for free while studying with us.

IT Requirements and Support

Accommodation and living costs

You need to cover your accommodation and living costs for the duration of your programme.

We estimate that you might spend £1,167 to £2,330 per month if you are a single student.

Living costs include:

  • food
  • utility bills
  • travel, clothes, books and stationery
  • recreational costs (for example, TV subscriptions and social events)

Living costs

Accommodation costs depend on where you live while studying and the type of accommodation you choose.

University postgraduate accommodation options and costs

Funding opportunities

Funding for postgraduate study is different to undergraduate study, and many students need to combine funding sources to pay for their studies.

Most students use a combination of the following funding to pay their tuition fees and living costs:

  • borrowing money
    • taking out a loan
    • family support
  • personal savings
  • income from work
  • employer sponsorship
  • scholarships

Explore sources of funding for postgraduate study

ScottishPower has been building relationships with universities in our communities for a number of years. Working together, we aim to support development of future talent while mitigating the projected skills gap within the energy sector.

The programme is designed to financially support high achieving recent graduates in Spain, the United Kingdom and Mexico, who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree in industry relevant fields such as engineering, smart grids, renewable energy, sustainability, energy and environment, information technology, big data, cybersecurity, and more.

Value: Full tuition fees plus a monthly maintenance allowance
View details: Learn more about the Scottish Power Scholarship

Search for other funding opportunities

You can find scholarships, bursaries and other funding you might be eligible for on our Scholarships and Student Funding site.

Postgraduate funding opportunities

These entry requirements are for the 2026-27 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2026.

Qualifications

A UK 2:1 degree, or international equivalent, in Electrical and/or Electronic Engineering.  
 
Applicants with different academic backgrounds may be considered but we expect you to have passed at least two power engineering related courses with marks equivalent to UK 2:1 as a minimum. Examples of relevant courses are power electronics, power systems, electric machines, control engineering, renewable energy etc. This requirement may be partially met by relevant industrial experience; applicants with non-standard backgrounds may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
 
Applicants will also need to submit a personal statement, which should clearly demonstrate both their level of understanding of power engineering, and their strong interest in and commitment to the field.
 
Please note that entry to this programme is very competitive. A typical offer will normally require a UK first class honours degree or equivalent.

International qualifications

To find international equivalent qualifications, select where you studied from the country or region list.

English language requirements

You must prove that your English language abilities are at a high enough level to study this degree programme.

This is the case for all applicants, including UK nationals.

You can meet our English language requirements with one of the following:

  • an English language test
  • a degree that was taught and assessed in English
  • certain professional qualifications

English language tests we accept

We accept any of the following English language tests, at the specified grade or higher:

  • IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
  • C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
  • Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
  • Oxford ELLT: total 7 with at least 6 in each component.
  • Oxford Test of English Advanced: total 145 with at least 135 in each component.
How old your English language tests can be
Tests no more than two years old

The following English language tests must be no more than two years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality:

  • IELTS Academic
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition)
  • Trinity ISE
  • Oxford ELLT
  • Oxford Test of English Advanced
Tests no more than three and a half years old

All other English language tests must be no more than three and a half years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality.   

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English-speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.

UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English-speaking countries (non-MESC).

Approved universities in non-MESC

How old your degree can be

If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts.

This time limit does not apply to your degree if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country.

Find out more about our English language requirements

Find out about other English language qualifications we accept, including professional qualifications.

English language requirements

What you will study

The programme runs over 12 months. You will take two semesters of taught courses, followed by a research project during the summer months, leading to the submission of your masters dissertation.

The courses correspond to 120 credits of taught material, plus 60 credits for the dissertation, for a total of 180 credits.

Semester 1

You will build a strong foundation in modern power engineering. The curriculum covers fundamental topics in power systems, electrical machines, and power electronics.

You will also learn essential research methods and scientific writing techniques, preparing you for advanced studies and professional practice.

Semester 2

You will advance your knowledge in power engineering. You will delve into more complex topics in power systems, electrical machines, and power electronics.

This semester also includes specialised subjects such as wind energy, solar energy, and the economic aspects of power systems. You will also have the opportunity to choose option courses to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals.

Research project and dissertation

After the completion of your taught courses, you will focus exclusively on a research project and dissertation over the summer, under the supervision of an academic member of staff. 

This project allows you to apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme to a real-world problem in electrical power engineering.

You will have opportunities to work closely with faculty members and potentially to collaborate with industry partners, enhancing your practical experience and professional network.

You will carry out your project in one of our power research groups, working alongside academics and researchers from the Institute for Energy Systems.

Sustainability

Compulsory course material on this programme reflects the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), primarily:

  • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
  • SDG 13: Climate Action

Depending on the optional courses you choose to take, you will have the opportunity to explore others.

Further your knowledge of sustainability with our free training and resources

Social and civic responsibility is a key focus of the University.

Learn more about our focus on social and civic responsibility in our Climate Strategy

Find courses for this programme

Find out what courses you can study on this programme and how each of them are taught and assessed.

The courses on offer may change from year to year, but the course information will give you an idea of what to expect on this programme.

Full-time

We link to the latest information available. This may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

You will learn from world-renowned academics who bring their extensive industrial experience and strong industry connections into the classroom.

Our programme places labs and practical skills at its core, providing you with essential hands-on experience to excel in your career.

You will learn through a combination of:

  • Taught courses: you will engage with comprehensive lectures and seminars designed to provide you with a solid theoretical foundation in electrical power engineering.
  • Guest lectures: industry experts will share with you their field experiences and the latest trends in power systems, renewable energy, and smart grids.
  • Workshops: our interactive sessions will deepen your understanding of power electronics, electrical machines, and renewable energy technologies.
  • Practical laboratories: you will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and techniques linked to electrical machines and power electronics, preparing you for real-world applications in power engineering.
  • Group design projects: collaborate with your peers on innovative projects on power system and wind turbine design, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills essential in research or industrial jobs.
  • Research dissertation: you will conduct independent research on a topic of your choice, applying your knowledge to solve real-world challenges in electrical power engineering.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme, you will be equipped with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel as a next-generation power engineer, ready to meet the evolving demands of the industry and society.

Specifically, you will:

  • Master cutting-edge developments and research skills: gain a deep understanding of the latest advancements in power engineering, including power systems, electrical machines, and power electronics. Develop robust research and development skills using advanced numerical methods and research tools, preparing you for both industrial and academic settings.
  • Address global energy challenges: understand and tackle the global energy trilemma of providing secure, equitable, and environmentally sustainable energy. You will appreciate the technical, social, and economic challenges faced by both developed and developing countries, with a focus on integrating wind energy, offshore renewables, energy storage, and smart grids.
  • Gain hands-on and industry-relevant experience: Benefit from extensive practical experience through labs, workshops, and group design projects, using cutting-edge equipment and techniques. Gain insights from an industry-driven curriculum and guest lectures by leading experts, ensuring your knowledge is current and relevant.
  • Experience career opportunities and professional networking: Be well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the energy sector, including roles in renewable energy, smart grids, energy storage, and power system design. Build valuable professional connections through collaboration with research groups and industry partners during your dissertation project, enhancing your practical experience and professional network.

Support for your studies

You will have access to a range of support services if you need them throughout your degree.

We will assign you to a student adviser, and this should be the first person to contact if you need help. They can guide you to other University service teams depending on what support you need.  

How we support you

Accreditation

The MSc programme in Electrical Power Engineering is accredited by the UK Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), one the largest professional engineering bodies in the world. Accredited programmes undergo continuous and robust quality review by the IET and are internationally recognised for the quality of the education they provide.

Your MSc can therefore count towards the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) in the UK. Chartered Engineers not only have a firm grasp of the underpinning knowledge of their field, but also possess the required professional skills to excel in the modern engineering environment.

Accreditation by the IET is awarded through a renewal-based and periodic accreditation review process which is currently underway for academic year 2026/2027 onwards. 

Career opportunities

Our graduates are well-prepared for a variety of industrial and research roles, thanks to the programme’s strong emphasis on both practical skills and cutting-edge research.

Industrial careers

As a graduate, you will be equipped to pursue roles in various sectors, including:

  • Energy utilities and manufacturers: Work with companies that generate, transmit, and distribute electricity, focusing on the development and maintenance of power systems and equipment.
  • Energy consultancies: Provide expert advice on power systems, renewable energy integration, and energy efficiency projects.
  • Engineering and construction companies: Engage in the design, construction, and maintenance of electrical infrastructure, including power electronics, smart grids, and renewable energy installations.
  • Renewable energy developers: Contribute to the development and implementation of renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, solar power plants, and energy storage systems.

Research careers

For those interested in academia or advanced research roles, the programme also prepares you to work in:

  • Research and development: Join research teams in industry or government labs, focusing on innovative solutions to energy challenges, such as power electronics, smart grid technology, energy storage, and sustainable power systems.
  • Academic positions: Pursue a career in teaching and research at universities and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of electrical power engineering knowledge.

Further study

After completing this programme, you may wish to consider applying for a PhD or other research programme.

Applying for research degrees

Moving on to a PhD (advice from the University's Careers Service)

Careers Service

The University of Edinburgh provides robust support to help you achieve your career goals:

  • Networking events: Participate in events that connect you with industry professionals, alumni, and potential employers, expanding your professional network.
  • Industrial presentations: Attend presentations by leading industry experts, gaining insights into current trends and future directions in electrical power engineering.
  • Seminars and workshops: Engage in seminars and workshops that enhance your understanding of key topics and provide opportunities for hands-on learning.
  • Careers service: Benefit from dedicated career support, including one-on-one career advice, CV and interview preparation, and job search resources.

By leveraging these opportunities, you will be well-positioned to secure a fulfilling career in the dynamic field of electrical power engineering, whether in industry or research.

Our Careers Service provides information and advice for taught postgraduate students:

Careers service

How to apply

You apply online for this programme. After you read the application guidance, select your preferred programme, then choose 'Start your application' to begin.

If you are considering applying to more than one programme, you should be aware that we cannot consider more than 3 applications from the same applicant.

When to apply

Due to high demand, the school operates a number of selection deadlines.

We strongly recommend you apply as early as possible. Applications may close earlier than the published deadlines if there is exceptionally high demand.

We may make a small number of offers to the most outstanding candidates on an ongoing basis. However, the majority of applications will be held until the advertised deadline.

We aim to make the majority of decisions within eight weeks of the selection deadline.

If we have not made you an offer by a specific selection deadline this means one of two things:

  • your application has been unsuccessful, in which case we will contact you to let you know
  • your application is still being considered, it will be carried forward for consideration in the next selection deadline, and we will be in touch once a decision is made

The final deadline may be extended if any places remain on the programme.

If the final deadline is extended, we encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

Selection deadlines

RoundApplication deadlineDecisions made or applications rolled to the next deadline
115 December1 March
231 March31 May
331 May31 July

When to submit your supporting documents

You must submit all supporting documents by the application deadline, or we will be unable to consider your application. Regardless of when you apply, you have 28 days from submitting your application to supply any supporting documents through the Application Hub, after which we will automatically reject your application.

Application fee

There is no fee to apply to this programme.

What you need to apply

As part of your online application, you will need to provide: 

You will also need to submit some or all of the following supporting documents:

When you start your application, you will be able to see the full list of documents you need to provide.

References

You must submit one reference with your application.

Apply

Select the award, duration and delivery mode you want to study. Then select the start date you want to apply for.

After you apply

Once you have applied for this programme, you will be able to track the progress of your application and accept or decline any offers.

Checking the status of your application

We will notify you by email once we have made a decision. Due to the large number of applications we receive, it might take a while until you hear from us.

Receiving our decision

What to do if you receive an offer:

Accommodation

We guarantee an offer of University accommodation for all new, single postgraduate taught students from outside the UK and new, single postgraduate research (typically PhD) students who:

  • apply for accommodation by 31 July in the year when you start your programme
  • accept an unconditional firm offer to study at the University by 31 July
  • study at the University for the whole of the academic year starting in September

University accommodation website

Accommodation guarantee criteria

We also offer accommodation options for couples and families.

Accommodation for couples and families

If you prefer to live elsewhere, we can offer you advice on finding accommodation in Edinburgh.

Accommodation information from the Edinburgh University Students' Association Advice Place

Societies and clubs

Our societies and sports clubs will help you develop your interests, meet like-minded people, find a new hobby or simply socialise.

Societies

Sport Clubs

The city of Edinburgh

Scotland's inspiring capital will form the background to your studies — a city with an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. 

Find out more about living in Edinburgh

Health and wellbeing support

You will have access to free health and wellbeing services throughout your time at university if you need them.

The support services we offer include: 

  • a student counselling service
  • a health centre (doctor's surgery)
  • support if you're living in University accommodation
  • dedicated help and support if you have a disability or need adjustments

Health and wellbeing support services 

Disability and Learning Support

General enquiries

Phone line is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.

futurestudents@ed.ac.uk
Phone:+44 (0)131 650 5737

Academic contact

Dr Michael Merlin

Programme Director

Contact details

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